Bail

While accused are waiting for proceedings to be heard in court, they can either be held in custody (in prison, a young offenders' institution or police cell) or released on bail. ‘Released on bail’ means that they are free to leave the court but only under certain conditions. These conditions will include not committing any further offences. If they do commit another offence while on bail this will be added to the charge as a bail 'aggravation' and can add up to six months on to the sentence.